The 2014/15 season will soon be upon us, hard to believe that the first exhibition game tips off in under a month. Like last years team there are plenty of unknowns surrounding this team, with Yeo opting to be a big fish in a little pond and the recent injury to Lexus it creates some opportunities for some of the new guys, as well as what is happening with Hammink?
I do believe that Valpo will finish top half of the HL, I think KC will be much improved and will be able to find the consistency that eluded him last season and Alec will be a finalist for PoY, when all is said and done.
Anyways here is my depth chart for the season.
1: Lexus, KC, Max Joseph
2: Darien Walker, Tevonn Walker, Nick Davidson
3: Alec, Nickerson
4: Jubril, ?Hammink?, David Skara
5: Vashil, David Chadwick, Skara
There are a ton of questions on who will play where this year, with the injury to Lexus and the departure of Yeo really makes it difficult to figure who will play what and the questions surrounding Hammink's eligibility, will Nickerson and Chadwick be able to stay healthy throughout the year? What freshmen will step up?
I do believe we are much better than last year, I think Nickerson will play a big role off the bench and a Walker will have a terrific season. We should finish in the upper half of the HL and a first place finish isn't out of the question with the returning talent we have. Last year's freshmen class performed above and beyond my expectations so I have no reason to believe why this year's class will be any different.
It is really hard to say with so little knowledge of so many new players. I think your depth chart looks about right. It could go 10 deep, more early on with the need to play different combinations. If Hammink can play it could be the difference maker. The Canadians come in with big reputations as Walker was ranked as the 8th best in all of Canada and Joseph was ranked 22nd.
The biggest thing is the experience the sophomores gained last year and the comfort gained by Keith. Remember that LaVonte looked a lot like Keith when he joined the team mid-year. He went on to be a 1st Team All Conference player. Not saying Keith will do that but I do expect him to be a lot more consistent. Should be fun.
Final thought: If we "are much better than last year" what do you expect? We went 18-16 and finished finished fourth by 2 games over 5th. So, "top half" doesn't really get us to "much better"! ???
I wonder if we are over reacting to the loss of Lexus. A rising star no doubt but Keith seems to have gotten a bad rap as amking too many mistakes etc. Perhaps the hype concerning him coming in was not fair to begin with.
Looking at the stats from last year Keith and Lexus were very similar concerning Assists and turnovers per game or per minute.
Lexus had 2.38 assists per game and .102 per minute. He had 1.37 assists per turnover.
Keith had 2.32 assists per game and .125 per minute. He had 1.38 assists per turnover.
Keith averaged 5.7 ppg while Lexus had 6.5.
Dority had the worst turnover to assist ratio amoung the three but his role was that of a scorer which he sometimes took too seriously. ;)
Quote from: vu72 on October 10, 2014, 11:12:59 AM
I wonder if we are over reacting to the loss of Lexus. A rising star no doubt but Keith seems to have gotten a bad rap as amking too many mistakes etc. Perhaps the hype concerning him coming in was not fair to begin with.
Looking at the stats from last year Keith and Lexus were very similar concerning Assists and turnovers per game or per minute.
Lexus had 2.38 assists per game and .102 per minute. He had 1.37 assists per turnover.
Keith had 2.32 assists per game and .125 per minute. He had 1.38 assists per turnover.
Keith averaged 5.7 ppg while Lexus had 6.5.
Dority had the worst turnover to assist ratio amoung the three but his role was that of a scorer which he sometimes took too seriously. ;)
I agree about the Keith statements, from watching him last season you saw flashes of a great player and he definitely has the skills to do great things. Like I previously said I think he'll have more consistency in his game than he did last year, towards the end of the season I thought he began to play much better as well.
Carter had a team best 5.0 assists per 40 and 2.4 steals per 40. He also had a higher 12.4 points vs 11.2 for Lexus. While his turnover numbers were bad, he was more efficient than Lexus in a variety of categories, including 3pt% (higher than Peters), FG%, FGs, rebounding and blocks.
His defense was noticeably better, and in my opinion, was the best defender on the team. His defensive rating of 100.8 was the 2nd best on the team (Moussa at 1) and his steal % was the best on the team at 3.4%.
I'm not suggesting KC was outright better than Lexus... moreso that I don't necessarily think we're losing 3-4 more games as Commissioner suggests without Lexus. Lexus had some great moments, but he also had the lowest PER out of anyone on the team, and I think Carter's athleticism and frame make for a higher ceiling than Lexus.
The expectations for Carter were pretty ridiculous, but I do think he'll look a lot better with him being a starter and having lots of minutes.
My starting lineup guess has peters at the 4, Nickerson at the 3, and Jubril playing a major role off the bench.
Sorry that Lexus tore the ACL. I am sure we all pray for his full recovery. He was a huge surprise last year and performed way beyond just about everyone's expectations especially my own. I think his high level of performance early in the season added to the pressure on Keith and influenced the style of play that we expected to see from KC. I think Carter really puts it all together this year, much like LaVonte did last year. As a3uge eluded to, Carter strikes me as the type of player that needs minutes, the more minutes the better he will play. Most likely this year he will not be looking over his shoulder as often to see someone else filling his spot, allowing him to play loose and instinctive. Keith's increased comfort level should lead to better offensive numbers across the board.
Agree wholeheartedly with a3uge's defensive assessment of KC. LOVE his ball pressure and how he stays in-front. Constant ball pressure can just wear an opponent out and we all know what happens when you get tired. We had a saying at IT that "ball pressure is a b!#ch". Our guards loved to harass our opponents and hated it just as much when it happened to them. Loved watching Keith play defense, forget all the offensive expectations, defense was the first thing that I noticed about him.
I also don't buy the Commissioner's thought train that the sky is falling because Lexus is injured. To suggest that we lose 3-4 more games because of his absence seems a little extreme to me. I think we will have enough capable guard play to give KC a blow when needed.
With the likely improvements to Peter's, Adekoya and Vashil along with the addition of Nickerson and perhaps Hammink, we will be much more experienced than last year and should expect improvement rather than decline.
As an open question who will play the most minutes at backup center? Will it be Skara, Adekoya, or Chadwick? Right now I am leaning towards Jubril but I hope that one of the other two are good enough to beat him out.
Wondering why you would hope that--other than the obvious "that means we have even more good players"...so that Jubril can get a breather?
I'm thinking we might see a "small" lineup in the absence of Vashil--with Jubril and Alec or E-Victor/Hammink. Two of the three of them gives you a couple 6-7+ guys, and three of them? Not too many in the HL can roll 3 of those anyway, let alone in a "small" lineup.
I have a feeling that Jubril will be the nicest surprise to all of us this year. With a year under his belt, the game will slow down a bit for him and he will have a breakout season. Mark my words!
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on October 10, 2014, 08:33:49 PMWondering why you would hope that--other than the obvious "that means we have even more good players"...so that Jubril can get a breather?
Quote from: ValpoFan on October 13, 2014, 09:26:01 PMI have a feeling that Jubril will be the nicest surprise to all of us this year. With a year under his belt, the game will slow down a bit for him and he will have a breakout season. Mark my words!
For Jubril to have a breakout season his 3 point shooting has to significantly improve. His maneuverability both with and without the ball will increase dramatically if he has to be guarded out to the 3 point line. This is equally true if he is playing the 4 or as a backup small center for Vashil.
My worst nightmare is Jubril being clearly better at the 5 than Skara or Chadwick but not shooting the 3 well enough to draw out a defender. That is the reason (as well as depth) that I hope the other 2 potential centers can emerge. On top of this I am not certain that Jubril has any desire to play the 5 other than it might be what the team needs most.
I'm not concerned so much about Jubril hitting 3's, but he has to be able to consistently knock down 15-foot baseline jump shots to keep defenses honest. Last year (especially in conference) opponents were leaving him wide open on the baseline in favor of doubling down low or overplaying Alec or LaVonte. Possession after possession we worked through our progressions with our shooters bottled up, and Jubril wide open. We already have one handicap on the offensive end with Vashil, who can't score from anywhere other than directly underneath and who has a hard time handling lobs over the top without fumbling the ball. Hopefully, Vashil's ball handling skills will improve, but regardless we have to have the ability to score from multiple positions if we hope to consistently win close games in conference.
Getting the students engaged:
http://instagram.com/p/uMVOK9jTXx/ (http://instagram.com/p/uMVOK9jTXx/)
Dark gray shirts will fit in nicely with the 8 different shades of gold shirts they've handed out in the past.
But great idea on the dodgeball tourney.
Too true. Although seems endemic to anything mass produced.
You never knew there were so many shades of green until attending the Valpo schools' "This Is Our Story" concert.
Just received this email from ml re. 4th annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice:
Dear Season Ticket Holder,
Thank you for purchasing season tickets for the 2014-2015 Valpo Basketball season. We are excited for another thrilling season of Crusader basketball! To show our appreciation for your involvement in the program, you and your family are invited to the 4th annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice. You'll have the opportunity to connect with men's basketball head coach Bryce Drew, women's basketball head coach Tracey Dorow, as well as both teams!
This exclusive event for season ticket holders will be held at the ARC on Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. and will involve one hour of practice before concluding with a "meet-and-greet" with both teams. You will be the first group to catch a glimpse of your Crusaders as they prepare for the 2014-2015 season. A complimentary light meal will be provided. If you are able to attend, we ask that you RSVP by calling 219.464.6894 or by emailing valpo.athletics@valpo.edu with the size of your party.
Details at a Glance
What: Season Ticket Holder Open Practice, a light meal provided
Where: Arena in Athletics-Recreation Center
When: 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 22
We look forward to seeing you at this event and thank you again for your continued support of Valpo Basketball!
Sincerely,
Mark LaBarbera
From Paul Oren:
@NWIOren
Good news for @ValpoBasketball. Bryce Drew reports that E. Victor Nickerson practiced for the first time today.
@NWIOren
Nickerson is coming off double hip surgery. Will be big part of the rotation this season.
In my analysis of unanswered questions, I forgot one...
WHAT DOES THE E STAND FOR IN E VICTOR NICKERSON?
Seeing how he's had multiple hip surgeries... the E. prefix could probably mean "Enhanced". ;D
ENHANCED VICTOR NICKERSON IT IS
But Victor E sounds like Victory.
A lot, actually. In fact, tf E. Victor and (Harry) Bell played on the same team...
To E. Victor go the spoils.
Finally got the team picture up. Unfortunately the "bigs" are sitting down so we can't really tell how tall they are (in comparison to each other!)
http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/#.VFeq9vnF8vw (http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/#.VFeq9vnF8vw)
No doubt we have some big guards. As examples, Darien Walker is 6'3" and weighs 215. Max Joseph is 6'1" and weighs 205. Compare that to Lexus Willims at 6' and 160 or E Victor at 6'8" and 180 lbs. ! Looking forward to these guys driving the lane and dishing out some punishment!
I particularly enjoy the fact that Shane Hammink is standing rather than sitting.
In the days of Jim Ford and John Becher, he would have been tied for tallest at worst...now he can't even get a chair.
Hammink is standing, David Skara is the guy sitting ;). Any word on whether or not the Dutchman will get to play this year?
Quote from: valpotx on November 04, 2014, 12:48:06 AMHammink is standing, David Skara is the guy sitting
...which is what i said. sleep deprivation must be getting to you.
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on November 03, 2014, 11:01:22 AMI particularly enjoy the fact that Shane Hammink is standing rather than sitting.
Because I wanted to know each individual player I figured it out for everybody.
I'm wondering if there were too many coaches and staff to include them in the picture this year.
Front row, left to right=David Skara, E. Victor Nickerson, David Chadwick, Vashil Fernandez, Alec Peters, Jubril Adekoya, Chandler Levingston Simon
Back row, left to right=Shane Hammink, Darien Walker, Max Joseph, Lexus Williams, Keith (Drew?) Carter, Tevonn Walker, Nick Davidson
posted in the game thread, but not the best place for it.
check out Paul Oren's series of tweets on the team:
https://twitter.com/NWIOren
(It IS scary to think that the only *player* link between Rowdy & Co. and this year is...Vashil.)
Thoughts on Hammink's denied the eligibility:
--it is a bummer, and it might not seem like a big deal now, but the NCAA's (non)decision just made us go from 4 scholly slots open in 2016-17 to 3.
--However, that puts him in Peters' et al. class. ...which we thought was good before.
--Making the offseason effectively a trade of Clay Yeo for Shane Hammink. Not a bad deal. Who *wouldn't* have made it?
--Also, the payoff is that instead of getting a 20- and 21-year old Shane, we get a 21- and *22*-year old Shane.
--22 > 20. So, there's that.
Title in 2016? or is it 2017? Think of the Butler guy...
As others have stated we are going to learn a bunch in the next three days. My optimism for the 15-16 season has been growing by the day but we should soon have a much clearer picture of the ceiling for this years team as well.
I do hate being wrong but this is a case where I hope that I have been too conservative and that this team can mature early and far exceed my preseason expectations just as our 2011-12 team did.
Quote from: justducky on November 28, 2014, 02:25:05 PMAs others have stated we are going to learn a bunch in the next three days. My optimism for the 15-16 season has been growing by the day but we should soon have a much clearer picture of the ceiling for this years team as well.
One solid performance down with hopefully two more to follow.
Was just now starting to wonder about next years distribution of playing time if Williams and Nickerson are then fully healthy and Hammink is as solid as some seem to think. I wish we had problems like that every year!
The season is barely off the ground and you're thinking about next year? Talk about looking ahead. :o
Since you brought it up - Assuming everyone returns and returns healthy, next years team should be the best combination of size, quickness, strength, athleticism and experience in Valpo history. Meanwhile, back at the ranch... ;)
Should be, but ask Lexus Williams how quickly your outlook on a season can change.
Remember to focus on the here and now; which was more fun to follow: the 'Rowdy team' their junior year, when everything was a pleasant surprise, or their senior year, when noblesse oblige and all that--everyone griped whenever they managed to lose? They did make it back to the Dance, of course and that was great...but I'd imagine that that first year many people thought "if we're this good this year imagine when everyone's back with more experience!"
This year is going to be a pleasant surprise in part because no one seems to be expecting that much.
Although we keep winning and we're going to have to ratchet that up a bit : )
[tweet]552201059347992576[/tweet]
A few odds and ends that I wanted to stick somewhere------
Several players have benefited from the Carter injury but none more than Tevonne. More of the scoring and ball handling responsibilities have been handed to him and he has risen to the occasion.
The only way I can describe the development of 13-14 Vashil into 14-15 Vashil is as an "extraordinary improvement". I can't think of any comparisons of equal magnitude!
Suddenly Jubril has found an accurate 14 foot jumper to mix in with those nifty 2 and 3 dribble scoops and up and under moves around the rim. I can think of a fair comparison for Jubril (as backup center) and that would be of a senior Cory Johnson. If Jubril ever develops a 35% 3 point shot then hold on to your hats!
[tweet]557941800426815488[/tweet]
The success of Tevonn shows how strong of a coach Bryce is, not just Tevonn but all the freshmen/newcomers over the past few seasons.
Other than Alec not many of the freshman were highly recruited over the past few seasons. You also have to look at the surprises. Last season I wasn't expecting much from Lexus yet he was looking like a bright young star who was on of the best freshmen in the league. Although injured for the season, we're basically trading sophomore year Lexus for 5th year senior year Lexus, which is a good trade in my mind. You also look at Jubril and although started off slow this season is playing much more to his potential. Also last season Clay Yeo played significant minutes as well.
This season people thought Valpo's incoming class was suspect. 2 Canadiens, a Croatian, and late JUCO transfer. Tevonn is a candidate for FoY, Max has been huge since the recent injury to KC, Skara has held his ground, and Darien is showing that he's a scoring threat at any time.
You also look at the transfers he's brought in over the years. We go back to Will Bogan who was a terrific 3-point shooter, Ben Boggs who was a big part of the Broekhoff years, as well as Bobby and All conference player in LVD. He also got the most out of KVW and Rowdy became an all-conference player as well. Now we have guys like KC, who before the injury, was looking like an all-conference player. As well as the addition of EVN, who has stepped up into a position he's unfamiliar with and really has given us good minutes and has improved from game-to-game.
The biggest sign of Bryce's ability is Vashil. Who was a project to say the least. A great kid with little basketball experience to one of the most intimidating players in the conference.
Time and time again they pan to the bench after a substitution and you see Bryce sitting with the player and talking to him, not just pacing up and down the sidelines. He's fantastic coach and a great person. Valpo has the potential to become more than a team with a cinderalla dream, they can become that team that crushes those dreams and truly become a mid-major powerhouse.
Very nice article on Tevonn, Bryce and Tevonn's adjustment to college life and D1 basketball. Got to briefly meet his mother at the IPFW game, she seems very supportive.
To me, the recruiting is what's so impressive. When we heard about Tevonn and Max, there was a lot of head scratching. Two Canadians who basicly didn't have any (or few) D1 offers. I was wondering why Bryce et al couldn't find a top notch guard or two in the state of Indiana, or Illinois, or...lots of states. The reality is that Tevonn is an absolute steal. How many D1 freshman guards from Indiana who aren't playing at high major schools are better then Tevonn?
So far in conference play both Vashil and Jubril have been shooting lights out!
Vashil is 25/35 which is good for 71%, Vashil has added a few nice post moves as well as the hook shot which seems to go in every time.
While Jubril is 21/26 for an outstanding 80.8% and Jubril has been great finishing getting the ball to the rim and finishing as well as the development of his mid-range jumper has kept defenses honest and have to respect him as a capable shooter.
Just to echo. Jubril down low last night was unstoppable. He showed an array of post moves and a nice Carlos Boozer-esque 5 ft fall-away. Then he hit a 12-14 fter. Since conference play began and [ ], he has really settled down and played as a possible 6th man of the year in conference.
Quote from: valpo84 on January 21, 2015, 01:08:40 PMBoozer-esque
That's a great comparison, especially because usually being called "boozeresque" is the opposite of a compliment.
Well..."Boozer-esque" isn't always a compliment either. I'm sure you're talking ca. 2007, not present day, though : )
Understand.... Actually, I'll take any form of Boozer, old or young. The other night he was still hitting that fall away 5-7 fter against the Cavs. Over his 4 years in Chicago 15.5/9, with an array of inside moves and a 15 ft jumper (set shot). He has had a very good FG% -- 52.3% and doesn't need or take 3s. He's taken a lot of guff over the years for over 13000 pts and nearly 8000 rebs (nearly a double double). Not his fault Rose was broken 2 years in a row. Would prefer that Jubril play a bit more D.
As an avid Bulls fan, I think the comparison to Boozer is a very good one - and one I never would have thought of. I loved Boozer on the offensive end. It was on defense where Carlos had his struggles, but I know that's not what you're comparing.
Quote from: FWalum on January 21, 2015, 12:13:16 PM
Very nice article on Tevonn, Bryce and Tevonn's adjustment to college life and D1 basketball. Got to briefly meet his mother at the IPFW game, she seems very supportive.
Quote
"Before I made my decision, I had a big conversation with my mom and my grandma, and it felt just like I was making my grandma comfortable and (also) my mom, knowing that I would be around good people who have good values," said Walker.
"Also being under Bryce Drew, who has those values, but also has been to the highest level in basketball and has a great bank of knowledge just waiting to be dished out to all the players. So it kind of worked both ways."
Nice!
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on January 21, 2015, 03:33:16 PM
Quote from: valpo84 on January 21, 2015, 01:08:40 PMBoozer-esque
That's a great comparison, especially because usually being called "boozeresque" is the opposite of a compliment.
Well..."Boozer-esque" isn't always a compliment either. I'm sure you're talking ca. 2007, not present day, though : )
So the term does not refer to a certain incident on Linden Lane that we hope is behind him?
Anybody else notice that we've already won as many games as we did all last year (final 18-16) !! Lots of work to do!!
gosh, i hope we don't lose 13 in a row
Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2015, 08:47:16 PM
Anybody else notice that we've already won as many games as we did all last year (final 18-16) !! Lots of work to do!!
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on January 22, 2015, 09:07:42 PM
gosh, i hope we don't lose 13 in a row
If we do, we know where to start the blame chain...
Quote from: covufan on January 23, 2015, 04:25:41 PM
Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2015, 08:47:16 PM
Anybody else notice that we've already won as many games as we did all last year (final 18-16) !! Lots of work to do!!
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on January 22, 2015, 09:07:42 PM
gosh, i hope we don't lose 13 in a row
If we do, we know where to start the blame chain...
-Our super weak OOC schedule, next season we schedule 8 high major programs all with RPIs better than 25
-The refs for allowing the other team's PG to shoot 24 FTs in each of our remaining games
-The HL for letting the wrong Chicago team go
-The other team's coaches, because they're awful
-Tom Brady for deflating the balls
-The athletic department for not having a nice enough stadium
-THE FANS for not coming out to senior day despite the 10 game losing streak.
-The new Hockey team for distracting our players attention and recruiting Alec to come play for them.
Quote from: Kyle321n on January 23, 2015, 04:47:19 PM
Quote from: covufan on January 23, 2015, 04:25:41 PM
Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2015, 08:47:16 PM
Anybody else notice that we've already won as many games as we did all last year (final 18-16) !! Lots of work to do!!
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on January 22, 2015, 09:07:42 PM
gosh, i hope we don't lose 13 in a row
If we do, we know where to start the blame chain...
-Our super weak OOC schedule, next season we schedule 8 high major programs all with RPIs better than 25
-The refs for allowing the other team's PG to shoot 24 FTs in each of our remaining games
-The HL for letting the wrong Chicago team go
-The other team's coaches, because they're awful
-Tom Brady for deflating the balls
-The athletic department for not having a nice enough stadium
-THE FANS for not coming out to senior day despite the 10 game losing streak.
-The new Hockey team for distracting our players attention and recruiting Alec to come play for them.
A good start!
This is a bit off topic but newcomer of the year award should go to EVN
He's coming off double hip surgery and didn't start playing again till the very beginning of the season. Right now he's our starting PG, which isn't his natural position, every game he's improved from having 6 turnovers against CSU to only 1 against GB. He was able to hold Sykes to one of his worst games of the season going 4-17 for only 11 points. If EVN can keep up the steady improvement until the end of the season, he can have a very special February and March.
Losing KC could've been absolutely disastrous, perhaps this could be a blessing in disguise. Assuming KC is fully recovered come March, EVN can play a pivotal role in Valpo's title dreams this season. He has proven he can be a shut-down defender and can run the offence.
Is KC a better PG? Of course, in my mind he's just behind Keifer in the HL. If we want to win the tourney we need a healthy KC but the increased role for EVN has played huge in his development, and is making a case for newcomer of the year.
i'm not sure if you mean for the whole HL (?!?) or just VU, but surely he can't even be that on a team with Tevonn on it.
If there were a "Comeback Player of the Year" like in pro sports, then certainly I agree with you.
When you think about how close the GB game was, against a very experienced team on their home floor, it is truly amazing what our team has accomplished, or what the coaches have accomplished this year. At several points in that game we had three freshman playing at the same time. Our top two points are out and Alec was playing on a bad wheel. We have to be the favorite to win the conference title if you talk to anyone with half a brain, and includes Grizz! (at least the half a brain part!)
Quote from: vu72 on January 26, 2015, 04:42:06 PMWe have to be the favorite to win the conference title if you talk to anyone with half a brain, and includes Grizz! (at least the half a brain part!)
Well if Grizz enjoys being abused and comes here specifically for that reason then I am sure that our recent interactions are making him very, very happy! ;) ::)
Quote from: classof2014 on January 26, 2015, 04:14:02 PM
This is a bit off topic but newcomer of the year award should go to EVN
I think they got rid of newcomer and now give it out to Freshman of the Year. And if anyone is going to win that it's Paris Bass. I'll give you a moment to look at what he's done this season while collecting 4 FotW awards.
Quote from: justducky on January 26, 2015, 05:00:05 PM
Quote from: vu72 on January 26, 2015, 04:42:06 PMWe have to be the favorite to win the conference title if you talk to anyone with half a brain, and includes Grizz! (at least the half a brain part!)
Well if Grizz enjoys being abused and comes here specifically for that reason then I am sure that our recent interactions are making him very, very happy! ;) ::)
Yesterday, my wife challenged me to keep from saying anything negative about anyone for 1 week. Please do me a favor and don't engage Grizz while I'm going through withdrawals.
The things one does to keep peace in the family. :(
Quote from: Kyle321n on January 26, 2015, 05:00:20 PMI think they got rid of newcomer and now give it out to Freshman of the Year.
Somehow it seemed like it'd gone the other way around. But, right you are.
One thing that separates this team from past years teams is the defense. Even in our 4 losses the defense has played well and it was mostly our offense that struggled.
We have never given up more than 76 point in regulation (Oakland had 71 at the end of regulation). The highest points against in regulation came in our first game where we still won by 14. 90-76, so that was our second best offensive output, scored 93 twice (Maine and Murray St). When we score more than 50 points we are 19-1, getting to the 50 point plateau isn't very difficult either. Our defense is one of the best in the conference and that's the reason behind our 19-4 record.
We have over a 100 more boards than the next closest team in the league, YSU 892 vs 782, we are first in the league in blocks, just ahead of GB but second in BPG (GB is 1st). 4th in the league in steals. And 3rd in TOs forced per game.
Our offensive numbers are some of the best in the league as well but what really separates this this team is the tenacity on defense. There's a reason behind our 19-4 record and the answer is quite simple our defense has been stellar.
Quote from: classof2014 on January 28, 2015, 09:31:47 AMOne thing that separates this team from past years teams is the defense.
I agree. GB also has a good defense. That is the reason for the offensive stats in the first game at GB.
Ken Pomeroy
Record Ranking AdjO AdjD Tempo
2014-15 19 4 54 103.3 92.4 64.4
2013-14 18 16 169 102.3 103.2 64.9
2012-13 26 8 63 108.9 98.9 65.6
2011-12 22 12 147 102.9 101.4 64.4
2010-11 23 12 107 104.1 98.8 67.2
2009-10 15 17 174 109.4 109.4 68.9
2008-09 9 22 216 98.3 103.1 64.4
2007-08 21 14 128 106.5 101.6 67.3
2006-07 16 15 149 98.7 97.9 65.5
2005-06 17 12 174 103.4 105.3 70.6
2004-05 15 16 202 102 107.1 66.9
2003-04 18 13 146 98.3 97.8 70.8
2002-03 20 11 95 102.4 95.4 68.3
2001-02 24 8 51 108.8 97.4 70.4
From Pomeroy, this is by far our best defensive team in many years. I don't have a subscription to Pomeroy, so I can't go back any further.
Quote from: Kyle321n on January 26, 2015, 05:00:20 PM
Quote from: classof2014 on January 26, 2015, 04:14:02 PM
This is a bit off topic but newcomer of the year award should go to EVN
I think they got rid of newcomer and now give it out to Freshman of the Year. And if anyone is going to win that it's Paris Bass. I'll give you a moment to look at what he's done this season while collecting 4 FotW awards.
Agreed, Bass has been very good this season. I can't remember, is there an All Freshmen team? Or All Newcomer team? Or none at all?
Quote from: valpo4life on January 28, 2015, 02:54:35 PM
Quote from: Kyle321n on January 26, 2015, 05:00:20 PM
Quote from: classof2014 on January 26, 2015, 04:14:02 PM
This is a bit off topic but newcomer of the year award should go to EVN
I think they got rid of newcomer and now give it out to Freshman of the Year. And if anyone is going to win that it's Paris Bass. I'll give you a moment to look at what he's done this season while collecting 4 FotW awards.
Agreed, Bass has been very good this season. I can't remember, is there an All Freshmen team? Or All Newcomer team? Or none at all?
It's all freshman.
Right now I would pick
FOY- Bass, Paris UDM (Leads HL Fr in PPG, RPG and efficency, 2nd in APG, SPG, BPG and MPG)
1st Team - Walker, Tevonn VALP (1st in MPG, APG, and SPG, 2nd in Efficency, and PPG)
1st Team - Skara, David VALP
1st Team - Hayes, Jalen OAK
1st Team - Odiase, Tai UIC
*calls on Grizz to tell me why I'm wrong not to pick Nick Daniels and how Tevonn is a bum*
I have to admit that watching this team play defense has really been enjoyable this year. I think it started with Keith, Tevonn and Vashil and has become a complete team philosophy. Just watch some of the positioning that our guards take against a defender with the ball and see that they are not only defending against the offensive player attacking the basket, but they are also taking stances and creating angles that push players into the areas of the floor that we prefer while also preventing the pass. Defensive positioning, for the most part, has been excellent for most every player. I challenge all of you to watch the way Tevonn (and Keith when he was healthy) takes away a player's ball handling and passing tendencies and the tenacity and strength with which he plays the game. It is also a huge help that we can funnel a driving player right into Vashil's shot altering and blocking abilities.
I agree with almost each pick. The top four of Bass, Walker, Hayes, and Skara I think are pretty much locks. Although I wouldn't be surprised to see Skara snubbed somehow. For my fifth guy, I like Grant Benzinger personally. Kid can really shoot the three ball for Wright State and has had a couple big games for them. Just had 18 at Detroit.
And to add to the defense praise. Vashil's value on that end of the court is unmatched. It allows us to get after it on the perimeter and know that if they do get beat there's a strong last line of defense. And if we're mentioning things to watch, it's the funneling not straight to Vashil, it's funneling the drive to the short corner. The positioning we use in that act keeps the driver away from the middle, while not letting a straight line drive to the rim. It may be painful to watch, but watch Green Bay's last bucket of the game. It running fade away floater from outside the paint. We're forcing tough shots like that if Vashil isn't already altering them or blocking them.
Quote from: valpo4life on January 28, 2015, 03:32:40 PMAnd if we're mentioning things to watch, it's the funneling not straight to Vashil, it's funneling the drive to the short corner.
Excellent observation!
From the Valpo Atheltics FB page from earlier today... for those looking to Friday the 13th.
Mark your calendars -- ESPN has made netflex selections for Feb. 13 #HLMBB games:
- Green Bay at Valparaiso; ESPN2 at 7pm ET
- Cleveland State at Detroit; ESPNU at 8pm ET
Tevonn should be a shoo-in for FOW:
Detroit 19 points on 7-13 FG, 5-6 FT, 0 TO's
Oakland 12 points on 4-7 FG, 4-4 FT, 2 TO's
Combined 15.5 PPG, 11-20 FG (55%), 9-10 FT (90%), 1 TOPG
Except for the fact Jalen Hayes went for 16 pts (5-9 FG) 10 assists and 3 steals at UIC, and 21 pts, 6 rebounds and 4 steals today.
Quote from: vusupporter on February 08, 2015, 08:29:18 PM
Except for the fact Jalen Hayes went for 16 pts (5-9 FG) 10 assists and 3 steals at UIC, and 21 pts, 6 rebounds and 4 steals today.
True, but his team also lost head-to-head against Tevonn's. Valpo went 2-0 for the week. Tevonn's contributions were critical to both wins.
Quote from: wh on February 08, 2015, 08:35:00 PM
Quote from: vusupporter on February 08, 2015, 08:29:18 PM
Except for the fact Jalen Hayes went for 16 pts (5-9 FG) 10 assists and 3 steals at UIC, and 21 pts, 6 rebounds and 4 steals today.
True, but his team also lost head-to-head against Tevonn's. Valpo went 2-0 for the week. Tevonn's contributions were critical to both wins.
Player of the Week and Most Valuable Player are two totally different things. While Tevonn was clearly more valuable to his team in terms of the standings, Hayes was clearly the statistically better player this week.
Since I took a look at the raw stats last week to make up my all-Frosh team let me take a look at KenPom's stats to make an all-Frosh team this week.
For my cut off I used a minimum of 18 games played and 30% of the possible minutes played. Our own Max Joseph didn't make the cut at 24.2% of the minutes played. I'm sure everyone's fine with him not being in the FOY running.
With a rough week and the top 2 guys behind him having great weeks Paris Bass has come down to earth and made it a true three man race for FoY with Jalen Hayes and Tevonn Walker. While their usage and counting stats aren't as pretty as Bass's, Hayes and Walker are currently rated at 110.9 and 107.5 with Bass being down at 94.2. That said with 28% of his team's possessions used, Bass is clearly the most valuable Freshman and his stats are hard to argue with. He's still the leading FoY candidate.
FOY- Paris Bass, UDM
1st Team- Jalen Hayes, OAK
1st Team- Tevonn Walker, VU
1st Team- David Skara, VU
1st Team- Grant Benzinger, WSU
Nick Daniels, OAK (Barely making it with 30.9% MP) is just off the list, but his MPG and usage are tracking up and could pass Benzinger who has the Midas touch from beyond the arc. Of the Freshman he has the most 3s attempted and also the highest percentage hit at 45.8%. Daniels is second in 3P% and 3PM. Skara is also barely hanging on to his spot with impressive rebounding, assists and shooting from inside the arc. He also has the highest TORate among qualified freshman and a horrendous 3P%.
Please take a look at conf-only stats and see how that pans out. That is a more objective assessment - comparison based on common opponents, more current. I think that's what most voters look at as opposed to stats from Mich. State or Grace college in Nov.
Well looking at the conference only stats will allow me to include some who weren't previously included. I think I would change my top 5 to remove Skara and add in Daniels.
Frankly while Max has the 2nd best Offensive Rating among qualified freshmen, the 34.2% minutes played and 12.5% usage doesn't qualify him for this. Same goes for Daeshon Francis (31.8% MP, 18% usage).
If anything this would increase my likelyhood of picking Jalen Hayes as my FoY, but it's foolish to throw out what Bass did early on in the season. Benzinger's crazy 3 point shooting only gets crazier hitting 52.5% and still shooting 10 more 3s than Daniels. Daniels leads Freshmen in steal % by over half a point and Bass's rebounding, assists and usage still dominate the rest of the league's freshmen.
From the HL website... a few minutes ago....
INDIANAPOLIS -- Oakland senior center Corey Petros (Macomb, Mich./Utica Eisenhower) has been named the Horizon League Men's Basketball Player of the Week, while his teammate freshman forward Jalen Hayes (Lansing, Mich./Sexton) has been named the Freshman of the Week, for the week of Feb. 2-8.
http://www.horizonleague.org/blog/oaklands-petros-and-hayes-collect-mens-basketball-honors (http://www.horizonleague.org/blog/oaklands-petros-and-hayes-collect-mens-basketball-honors)
Boy, that Kampe is quite the charmer.
The next thing you know the HL office will let Oakland host the tournament at the o'rena if they're the no.1 seed. Only kidding. I'm sure the league office was smart enough to tell Oakland at the time they made the exception to let them join the league despite not meeting the arena size requirements that in the event they host the tournament, they would have to find a larger arena so the league wouldn't risk losing tens of thousands of dollars in ticket sales. Surely the league did that, right? Especially since Oakland was begging to get into the league, and the league was holding all the cards, right? Surely they didn't let Greg the charmer bamboozle them with flattery about for awesome it would be to join 1 of the top 10 leagues in the country, did they? They didn't, did they?
I seem to miss what he said/did in relation to that article?
I typically look at just conference-only stats when voting for league honors.
Maybe Aaron can chime in here with the POW-FOW mechanism. I understood that each team (not sure if its the SID or Coach) that submits their pick from their own team for each award... and then the league office selects one. I could be wrong....
But I'm sure that with all of our new-found balanced attack, we don't have anyone sparking statistical interest. It might be interesting to see how many of these awards are coming off a week in which they played UIC? (Read that: Padding the Stats)
I wonder if the Valpo guys played 37+ minutes per game if their stats would jump off the page.
Would someone kindly answer this question for me. How many has the POTW honor been awarded to someone whose team did not win all the games they played that particular week?
Scoreboard Chant (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWupk9lpYX4#)
Quote from: wh on February 09, 2015, 03:28:00 PM
Would someone kindly answer this question for me. How many has the POTW honor been awarded to someone whose team did not win all the games they played that particular week?
I'm not sure why you're so upset about the PotW honor going to someone who put up 50 points and 24 rebounds in 2 games despite going 1-1 but I found another one (http://www.horizonleague.org/blog/green-bays-love-oaklands-hayes-collect-mens-basketball-honors) from earlier this year.
Why do they do player of the week voting in the first place? The sample sizes are literally 1-2 games. These awards are irrelevant. Let Oakland's 5 players rack up stats to make a couple Oakland fans happy, and we'll take being above .500 while controlling our own destiny in route to a Horizon League championship.
Quote from: wh on February 09, 2015, 02:57:06 PMThe next thing you know the HL office will let Oakland host the tournament at the o'rena if they're the no.1 seed. Only kidding. I'm sure the league office was smart enough to tell Oakland at the time they made the exception to let them join the league despite not meeting the arena size requirements that in the event they host the tournament, they would have to find a larger arena so the league wouldn't risk losing tens of thousands of dollars in ticket sales. Surely the league did that, right? Especially since Oakland was begging to get into the league, and the league was holding all the cards, right? Surely they didn't let Greg the charmer bamboozle them with flattery about for awesome it would be to join 1 of the top 10 leagues in the country, did they? They didn't, did they?
They have an arena just down the road from Oakland U in Auburn Hills that would work out. The guys who own it even call it a Palace. It would cost some of that guarantee money that the Grizzlies earned losing 6 games in the non-conf. I'm sure they have a plan in place.
We're going to hold the HL baseball tournament next to the BP refinery up in Whiting. I don't think we have that much to complain about.
(http://files.streamlinetechnologies.com/valpoathletics/4501B1F6-72BF-489C-939A-5B2ED1C01CB8/10240L.jpg)
There appears to be something between the skyline and Lake Michigan that doesn't smell too great isn't nice looking either.
Haha, I didn't know that was the view of the field! Very scenic :)
Wow - here I thought it was a joke. What happened to using the Railcats' stadium?
Quote from: agibson on February 10, 2015, 07:20:07 AMWhat happened to using the Railcats' stadium?
A quick check of the Railcats website shows their league starting in May instead of June so it sounds like the Railcats will be in full swing. The Railcats open on May 21st. It may also be the cost of renting the stadium.
Horizon League Baseball ChampionshipMay 20-23, 2015Location:Whiting, IN
Host:Valparaiso
Facilities:Oil City Stadium
Reigning Champ: Youngstown Statehttp://www.railcatsbaseball.com/schedule/default/2015/5/ (http://www.railcatsbaseball.com/schedule/default/2015/5/)
It's possible scheduling conflicts with Railcats Stadium, depending on what the season schedule is or the training schedule leading to the start of the season. The schedule probaby didn't work out at all.
Quote from: valporun on February 10, 2015, 11:58:11 PM
It's possible scheduling conflicts with Railcats Stadium, depending on what the season schedule is or the training schedule leading to the start of the season. The schedule probaby didn't work out at all.
In the post above your post are the dates for the HL tournament and the link is to the Railcats schedule in May. If you had checked the schedule you would have seen that the Railcats start their season at home against the Quebec les Capitales on May 21 which was during the HL tournament which is May 20-23. I think it was pretty clear from that post that the Railcats schedule conflicted with the HL tournament.
[tweet]567374563739455488[/tweet]
Valpo ranked #34 in new AP poll, receives 8 votes (John Feinstein & Seth Davis vote Crusaders at #25, Dough Doughty lists them at #20): http://collegepolltracker.com/basketball/ (http://collegepolltracker.com/basketball/)
Quote from: valpopal on February 16, 2015, 11:28:04 AM[tweet]567374563739455488[/tweet]
Some people in Detroit will be Bass Ackwards about this announcement all the way from the Motor City to Paris!
I bet Juwan to know why and Howard I know that.
Add another honor for T. Walker:
[tweet]567438288890650624[/tweet]
It would have been pretty embarrassing for Tevonn to be deemed worthy of national mid major player of the week but not HL freshman of the week. I like Bass a lot, but the reality is he starred in 1 game and did almost nothing in the other, not to mention Detroit lost 1 of 2.
Quote from: historyman on February 16, 2015, 02:13:21 PM
Quote from: valpopal on February 16, 2015, 11:28:04 AM[tweet]567374563739455488[/tweet]
Some people in Detroit will be Bass Ackwards about this announcement all the way from the Motor City to Paris!
I bet Juwan to know why and Howard I know that.
Yeah they're all about that Bass no Tevonn
They need the Bass-O-Matic 2150.
https://screen.yahoo.com/bassomatic-76-000000902.html
A clean sweep for the Walkers this week as Darien Walker joins Tevonn and Jasmyn for weekly honors, this time from College Sports Madness.
[tweet]567535990341107713[/tweet]
Quote from: valpopal on February 16, 2015, 03:42:20 PM
Add another honor for T. Walker:
[tweet]567438288890650624[/tweet]
Tremendous honor for the freshman. Congratulations Tevonn!
With the Panthers pulling off the upset against the Vikings. Valpo has the chance to clinch the HL on Wednesday night in Callahan Hall against the Titans. If Valpo does clinch, this would be 3 of the last 4 HL regular season titles to the Crusaders. With this latest season having a complete roster turnover from the last HL champion team, minus Vashil who was basically sat on the bench all season.
The coaching staff did an absolutely fantastic job reloading. They recruited near and far, going to Illinois for guys like Jubril, Lexus, and Alec. Turning to transfers like KC, EVN, and Darien. As well as going out of the country to bring in Tevonn and Skara, as well as Max who filled in quite well when we were dealing with injuries.
Unlike some teams who are a one man show, cough-Green Bay-cough. Valpo is truly a team. Before the season started we learned that Lexus would be lost for the season suffering a torn ACL. KC though stepped up and in a big way, looking like the big-name recruit that Rick Majerus loved. Not even two games into the conference season he suffered a dislocated toe, the team was 1-1 at the time and many thought Valpo's chances were minimal.
The team responded, EVN and Max stepped us and gave us big minutes at the point. Helping Valpo go 9-1 over a 10 game span, with the lone loss being by a single point.
Every regular on the team has at least had one game where they stepped up when they needed to. We don't need a 30 point outing from Alec in order to win. Green Bay needs that out of Keifer. The scoring comes from all over, not just 3 guys scoring 57 of the 60 points in a loss to Milwaukee.
Valpo is more than just one or two players. This is a team. And teams step up when the going gets tough, when we're down late to WSU or UWM. When we need a clutch 3 to help us seal the deal, when we need the defensive stop. Somebody is always there to make the play. Valpo doesn't just look to one player to step up and make the play, it can be anybody.
Valpo has a golden opportunity. Beat a mediocre Detroit team and the final game is meaningless. Valpo holds a 2 game lead on the rest of the conference in a season when many thought Valpo would be just meh. People asked who would score other than Alec? Who will pick up the slack due to injury at the point? Why did Bryce need to go to Canada to pick up 2 guards when they're only an hour from Chicago? Many of the questions have been answered.
I'm not crowning them champions yet. Detroit is good, they are talented and can beat anybody. The true test though will be the conference tournament. Can they get it done when it matters most? I guess that is the final question and the answer begins on Wednesday night at Callahan Hall in Motor City against Detroit.
Quote from: classof2014 on February 23, 2015, 11:12:00 AM
Every regular on the team has at least had one game where they stepped up when they needed to. We don't need a 30 point outing from Alec in order to win. Green Bay needs that out of Keifer. The scoring comes from all over, not just 3 guys scoring 57 of the 60 points in a loss to Milwaukee.
A crazy stat, everyone who has played 20 total minutes in conference play this year (this means everyone but Chadwick and Davidson) has scored 9+ points in a game. I don't know many teams in this conference who can have 9 guys score regularly when they get minutes, but our team does. We are DEEP.
Quote from: Kyle321n on February 23, 2015, 01:14:10 PM
Quote from: classof2014 on February 23, 2015, 11:12:00 AM
Every regular on the team has at least had one game where they stepped up when they needed to. We don't need a 30 point outing from Alec in order to win. Green Bay needs that out of Keifer. The scoring comes from all over, not just 3 guys scoring 57 of the 60 points in a loss to Milwaukee.
A crazy stat, everyone who has played 20 total minutes in conference play this year (this means everyone but Chadwick and Davidson) has scored 9+ points in a game. I don't know many teams in this conference who can have 9 guys score regularly when they get minutes, but our team does. We are DEEP.
And next season we should be even deeper! We'll have 2 high-level PGs in KC and Lexus. We get Shane Hammink becomes eligible and adds depth at the forward positions. As well as the addition to Smits should improve our offense.
Next year this team can be what Northern Iowa and Wichita State are this year.
Quote from: classof2014 on February 23, 2015, 11:12:00 AMCallahan Hall in Motor City against Detroit.
Calihan Hall
http://detroittitans.com/sports/2008/11/11/GEN_1111084603.aspx?id=21 (http://detroittitans.com/sports/2008/11/11/GEN_1111084603.aspx?id=21)
The good Jesuit brothers appreciate your due diligence in spelling Calihan with one "L" and an "I."
Also my sincere apologies for screwing up the vowel in Tevonn's name. I have been extremely guilty of this abuse. Again my apologies to the whole Montreal Jamaican community.
Go get that Bass, Tevonn!
I called Darien Walker "Damien" at the beginning of the year.
Felt better when Todd's color guy did the same thing against WSU.
The next two games are vary important to the team, win them and they are the best Valpo team record wise and League Champs. This is what they have played all year for, ya I think the team will be ready! :thumbsup:
A lot of pressure for a bunch of kids in their first and second years of college basketball.
http://www.ncaa.com/video/basketball-men/2015-02-25/mid-major-spotlight-valparaiso-crusaders (http://www.ncaa.com/video/basketball-men/2015-02-25/mid-major-spotlight-valparaiso-crusaders)
Quote from: agibson on February 26, 2015, 04:01:25 PM
http://www.ncaa.com/video/basketball-men/2015-02-25/mid-major-spotlight-valparaiso-crusaders (http://www.ncaa.com/video/basketball-men/2015-02-25/mid-major-spotlight-valparaiso-crusaders)
Some how the word "cruise" doesn't quite fit at the moment... :(
With the tournament coming up and discussion about the crowd coming in for it, I thought I'd take a look at the season results for the league and us in particular, to see if there was reason to believe that our improved results could lead to better attendance in the future.
Here's what I found:
Home Attendance by team:
WSU 4718
GB 3964
Valpo 3286
Milw 3030
Oak 2756
Det 2711
CSU 2590
UIC 2494
YSU 2428
The real disappointments are CSU, with a very good team, and Oakland, primarily because of their tiny gym.
When you factor in our home games with pathetic attendance--Trinity=1044; and Goshen=1014, our real average was much better then 3286. As far as improvement based on results, there was a clear trend as the season moved along and our great record began being noticed. Other than Detroit (really bad weather perhaps??), the last four conference games attendance were: CSU=4155; Oakland=4267; Green Bay=4920 and WSU=5050. In that order. Now, that's a trend!! Adding the New Mexico game and you have 5 games over 4200.
One other totally non-related set of statistics I found. Detroit leads the league in personal fouls per game at 21.2. CSU is next at 19.4. Valpo is dead last at 16.7. For the season then, Detroit committed 139 more fouls then we did!!
Quote from: vu72 on March 03, 2015, 02:32:55 PM
With the tournament coming up and discussion about the crowd coming in for it, I thought I'd take a look at the season results for the league and us in particular, to see if there was reason to believe that our improved results could lead to better attendance in the future.
Here's what I found:
Home Attendance by team:
WSU 4718
GB 3964
Valpo 3286
Milw 3030
Oak 2756
Det 2711
CSU 2590
UIC 2494
YSU 2428
The real disappointments are CSU, with a very good team, and Oakland, primarily because of their tiny gym.
When you factor in our home games with pathetic attendance--Trinity=1044; and Goshen=1014, our real average was much better then 3286. As far as improvement based on results, there was a clear trend as the season moved along and our great record began being noticed. Other than Detroit (really bad weather perhaps??), the last four conference games attendance were: CSU=4155; Oakland=4267; Green Bay=4920 and WSU=5050. In that order. Now, that's a trend!! Adding the New Mexico game and you have 5 games over 4200.
It's good to look at the attendance, but how about we look at the attendance vs. the capacity since that's really what matters.
| Oak | 2756 | 3000 | 91.87% |
| Valpo | 3286 | 5000 | 65.72% |
| WSU | 4718 | 10449 | 45.15% |
| GB | 3964 | 9729 | 40.74% |
| YSU | 2428 | 6400 | 37.94% |
| UIC | 2494 | 8000 | 31.18% |
| CSU | 2590 | 8500 | 30.47% |
| Det | 2711 | 8925 | 30.38% |
| Mil | 3030 | 10783 | 28.10% |
CSU is now VERY disappointing, and Green Bay doesn't look great either. Oakland can support a larger gym and I think we're all hopeful that they have one planned.
Thanks for that Kyle. If we can stop scheduling cupcakes, and, with continued winning records, our percentage at say, an average attendance of 4200, would be 84% and more evidence that an improved facility is necessary. The cold hard fact is that facilities don't draw fans, winning draws fans. Ask Loyola!
Does anyone have the attendance figures for hosting the HL tournament in the past. The Friday night, Saturday and then finals totals?
2013
Friday: (GB vs UIC only listed): 1,155
Saturday: Valpo vs. GB: 3,285
Tuesday: Valpo vs. WSU: 4,457
2012
Friday: (Butler vs. Milwaukee): 2,239
Saturday: (Valpo vs. Butler): 4,716
Tuesday: Valpo vs. Detroit 4,258
If tickets keep selling like they are...I can see a sell out for Saturday. ..wish they would hang billboards or advertise in some way
I'm sure someone also keeps track of these things... like for OAK?... what kind of give-aways/promotions did they use? I remember someone (CMU maybe?) gave away tickets to every 4th grader in Mount Pleasant to get them to come to a game during a student-break time.
I know in our last three games we had giveaways for the students (back packs, t-shirts, etc) just for coming in the door. While the altruistic person in me says "it's because we are 24-4 and getting noticed"... but a little enticement doesn't hurt.... and the better half-time shows are booked ($$) for the games like UNM... and not Trinity International.
Quote from: vu72 on March 03, 2015, 02:32:55 PMHome Attendance by team:
WSU 4718
Dear God, I have new respect for their fans...on 1-7 home conference slate?
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 03, 2015, 06:09:05 PMQuote from: vu72 on March 03, 2015, 02:32:55 PMHome Attendance by team: WSU 4718
Dear God, I have new respect for their fans...on 1-7 home conference slate?
Dayton is well known for having the best CBB fans in the country and is clearly the reason that the Dayton Flyers host the
First Four games of the NCAA Tournament. I believe StlVuFan has tickets for the
First Four games this year.
http://www.stubhub.com/ncaa-tournament-tickets-dayton/ (http://www.stubhub.com/ncaa-tournament-tickets-dayton/)
Dayton will sell quite a few of those $70 first round tickets.
Quote from: historyman on March 03, 2015, 08:33:20 PM
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 03, 2015, 06:09:05 PMQuote from: vu72 on March 03, 2015, 02:32:55 PMHome Attendance by team: WSU 4718
Dear God, I have new respect for their fans...on 1-7 home conference slate?
Dayton is well known for having the best CBB fans in the country and is clearly the reason that the Dayton Flyers host the First Four games of the NCAA Tournament. I believe StlVuFan has tickets for the First Four games this year.
http://www.stubhub.com/ncaa-tournament-tickets-dayton/ (http://www.stubhub.com/ncaa-tournament-tickets-dayton/)
Dayton will sell quite a few of those $70 first round tickets.
Not for quite that cheap, though. Of course, I also didn't buy from the NCAA ticket exchange. Lordy...
Would be interested to see who the best road draws are. Valpo would be expected to draw pretty well on the road. In addition to being a conference leader every year, we also bring along a healthy base of fans ("we travel well"). One of the reasons to join the Horizon was that our alumni base mapped well across the Horizon's then geographic base. Where's my stats guy?
Quote from: valpo84 on March 04, 2015, 09:55:03 AM
Would be interested to see who the best road draws are. Valpo would be expected to draw pretty well on the road. In addition to being a conference leader every year, we also bring along a healthy base of fans ("we travel well"). One of the reasons to join the Horizon was that our alumni base mapped well across the Horizon's then geographic base. Where's my stats guy?
That's hard to track. The variables that go into attendance year for year are 1. How good you were the year before. 2. How good you are now. 3. What day of the week it is. 4. Who you're playing.
I guess you could try to compare Milwaukee vs Valpo and Milwaukee vs CSU on a weekend game. Or UIC vs Valpo, UIC vs Green Bay etc
Woops it double posted
Quote from: a3uge on March 04, 2015, 10:37:51 AM
Woops it double posted
I don't see a double post.
the other one is in the thread with all of Paul's pictures of campus
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 04, 2015, 11:51:00 AM
the other one is in the thread with all of Paul's pictures of campus
I truly hope nobody goes looking for this thread...
Quote from: covufan on March 04, 2015, 01:55:18 PM
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 04, 2015, 11:51:00 AM
the other one is in the thread with all of Paul's pictures of campus
I truly hope nobody goes looking for this thread...
I still have faith that one day Paul will have the time and figure out how to post those pictures of campus. I'm sure they were very good!
(http://www.adsenseunleashed.com/img/picture2.jpg)
Quote from: covufan on March 04, 2015, 01:55:18 PM
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 04, 2015, 11:51:00 AM
the other one is in the thread with all of Paul's pictures of campus
I truly hope nobody goes looking for this thread...
http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1894.msg46421#msg46421 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1894.msg46421#msg46421)
Quote from: 78crusader on August 12, 2014, 01:53:40 PM
Valpopal-- but I DID follow up with a post admitting that I had screwed up! I really do intend to post some photos, now that I know how to do it, but this darn law practice of mine keeps interfering with finding time enough to post these pictures..
Have faith! It will happen...............some day.
(http://www.quickmeme.com/img/91/912e90c02b8f22e482183f1940c9972ed6633bf2ecefd2907920777c81f05f8c.jpg)
There's a really nice story about Vashil in the Post Tribune. I know he is or at least when I attended school he was involved all over campus with various clubs. He truly embodies what it means to be a Crusader.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-st-0306-20150305-story.html#page=2 (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-st-0306-20150305-story.html#page=2)
Quote from: classof2014 on March 06, 2015, 08:28:10 AM
There's a really nice story about Vashil in the Post Tribune. I know he is or at least when I attended school he was involved all over campus with various clubs. He truly embodies what it means to be a Crusader.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-st-0306-20150305-story.html#page=2 (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-st-0306-20150305-story.html#page=2)
Really nice piece. His daughter's sleeping through the night at four months?! It's like she's trying to make sure Vashil gets his sleep.
What a season it has been! Many said watch out for Valpo next year. Many said who will score other than Peters? Many said why did you go to Canada and Croatia? Many said who is Darien Walker?
Those questions were answered and were answered in a big way. This team is special, there's no other way to put it. Overcoming numerous injuries, from losing Lexus before the season began, to KC at the beginning of the conference, to losing Tevonn in the semis and virtually for the finals, and having Darien break his nose in the first half.
They say necessity is the mother of invention and this team reinvented themselves as the season went on. From a high-scoring to a shut-down defense that we saw tonight this team is incredibly versatile. This goes to show the coaches and the players we have brought in, not just great basketball players but intelligent young men who are willing to do anything to make the team better.
This team was flat-out fun to watch. Bryce Drew isn't just one of the best young coaches in college basketball. He IS one of the best coaches in college basketball. Just look at the list of injuries and how each one seemingly made our team stronger. Lexus went down KC stepped up, KC went down EVN stepped up, Tevonn went down Skara stepped up. They fought through the adversity. Now it's time to get healthy. Finally be close to 100%.
Time to go dancing!
I know that it is early to say this, but I hope that everyone comes back next year for a fun run! The only people I could see leaving might be Nick Davidson and/or Max Joseph, but the playing time will be there for Max in his Junior year, when Darien, E Victor, and Keith all graduate. With Lexus coming back, I truly hope that Max is thinking about his Junior and Senior years, and wants to stay at Valpo, as he showed some great PG skills during much of the conference season when Keith was out.
Quote from: classof2014 on March 10, 2015, 10:43:35 PMWhat a season it has been! Many said watch out for Valpo next year.
Yes and we believe it even stronger today than we did on Friday!
Quote from: classof2014 on March 10, 2015, 10:43:35 PMOvercoming numerous injuries, from losing Lexus before the season began, to KC at the beginning of the conference, to losing Tevonn in the semis and virtually for the finals, and having Darien break his nose in the first half.
Quote from: classof2014 on March 10, 2015, 10:43:35 PMJust look at the list of injuries and how each one seemingly made our team stronger. Lexus went down KC stepped up, KC went down EVN stepped up, Tevonn went down Skara stepped up.
Ok you got me convinced. So if we can just figure out a way to get a couple more players banged up by my calculations we should be almost unbeatable! :o
Charlotte fans keeping tabs on EVN:
http://ninernation.net/index.php?PHPSESSID=ihpssjagg7a7dirisqhpcap7l4&topic=27093.msg640424#new (http://ninernation.net/index.php?PHPSESSID=ihpssjagg7a7dirisqhpcap7l4&topic=27093.msg640424#new)
Current discussion starts with NY NINER (half way down the page)
I never thought I would say this, but I have to thank someone we've neglected for making this possible.
(Valpospartan, you best be paying attention.)
I think, as good a season as we are having, that we did very well to beat CSU 3 times by a combined total of 10 points.
If Bryn Forbes doesn't transfer, do we win all three of those games? Do we win any of them?
I think Izzo's a total knob, but he gets the first assist on the Forbes goal, and the NCAA the second, for making that kind of larceny possible.
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 15, 2015, 02:21:53 PM
I never thought I would say this, but I have to thank someone we've neglected for making this possible.
(Valpospartan, you best be paying attention.)
I think, as good a season as we are having, that we did very well to beat CSU 3 times by a combined total of 10 points.
If Bryn Forbes doesn't transfer, do we win all three of those games? Do we win any of them?
I think Izzo's a total knob, but he gets the first assist on the Forbes goal, and the NCAA the second, for making that kind of larceny possible.
I'm don't know what a knob is, but I am happy , and proud, that Tom Izzo is the basketball coach at my alma mater, Michigan State University. Maybe you could explain your dislike for him .
On another note, the audible sigh heard a little after 6PM ET, was from me finding out that VU is not playing Michigan State.
Quote from: valpospartan on March 15, 2015, 09:09:51 PMOn another note, the audible sigh heard a little after 6PM ET, was from me finding out that VU is not playing Michigan State.
I think we're all counting on you to counsel valpo04 through the grieving process.
Quote from: valpospartan on March 15, 2015, 09:09:51 PMI'm don't know what a knob is, but I am happy
Depends on if you're speaking british english or US english. In this case it's much better to be speaking US english--if you know what I mean.
As appreciation for the past season and with a look toward next year, I have put together a gallery with my selection of 75 game photos at the following link, beginning with the one included here as an appreciation of Vashil, the only starter we will be losing. Enjoy, and start thinking about next year! https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/72157650980430029/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/72157650980430029/)
(http://i57.tinypic.com/14wrm8y.jpg)
I do wonder how Bryce will give out playing time next year. Remember, added to a return of Lexus, a fully healthy E. Victor, a fully healthy Keith Carter, you have the Walker boys, and, the addition of Shane Hammink. Shane is 6'7", very athletic, a great shooter, left handed and runs like a deer. More length on the perimeter. Throw in that Peters kid, Jubril, David and a freshman big and I count 10. This assumes that Max doesn't have a breakout summer or that Simon really doesn't have meaningful talent.
We could be running the Kentucky platoon system, or pressing all over the floor. What problems!
Alas, it probably means we need to ask what player or two we'll be losing.
I'll miss Vashil a lot. He was fun to watch grow as a player from his sophomore season when he couldn't catch a pass down low, to this year when he became one of the most fearsome defenders in the nation. I still remember during his sophomore year watching him back down Coach Powell during the warmups before the game. I would tell my wife that year "If he could catch the ball he's got the footwork already down for great post moves, he just needs his hands to develop." I don't remember him doing it up much last season, but in the opening game, when he debuted his skyhook, it was really exciting.
I hope he gets to catch on to a team oversees, because I think he'll be able to put together a really nice pro career. Good luck Vashil and I wish nothing but the best to you and your family.
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Other District 12 Award Recipients:
District 12
First Team
Keifer Sykes Green Bay
Alec Peters Valparaiso
Lawrence Alexander North Dakota State (6'3" SR Guard)
Kahlil Felder Oakland
Cody Larson South Dakota State (6'9" SR Fwd)
Second Team
Trey Lewis Cleveland State
Juwan Howard Jr. Detroit
Obi Emegano Oral Roberts (6'3" Rs-JR Guard)
Anton Grady Cleveland State
Corey Petros Oakland
District Coaches of the Year:
2014-15 NABC UPS DIVISION I ALL-DISTRICT COACHES
District 1: Kevin Baggett, Rider
District 2: Tony Bennett, Virginia
District 3: Matthew Driscoll, North Florida and Barclay Radebaugh, Charleston Southern
District 4: Bob McKillop, Davidson
District 5: Jay Wright, Villanova
District 6: Brian Katz, Sacramento State
District 7: Bo Ryan, Wisconsin and Mark Turgeon, Maryland
District 8: Bob Huggins, West Virginia
District 9: Mark Few, Gonzaga
District 10: Kevin Keatts, UNC Wilmington
District 11: Mike White, Louisiana Tech
District 12: Bryce Drew, Valparaiso
District 13: James Jones, Yale
District 14: Keno Davis, Central Michigan
District 15: LeVelle Moton, North Carolina Central
District 16: Ben Jacobson, Northern Iowa
District 17: Leon Rice, Boise State
District 18: Glenn Braica, St. Francis Brooklyn
District 19: Steve Prohm, Murray State
District 20: Dana Altman, Oregon
District 22: Mike Young, Wofford
District 23: Brad Underwood, Stephen F. Austin and Mike Davis, Texas Southern
District 24: Mark Byington, Georgia Southern
District 25: Fran Dunphy, Temple
and if any of you are curious.. here are the boundaries for the "Districts"...
1 America East Conference & Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
2 Atlantic Coast Conference
3 Atlantic Sun Conference & Big South Conference
4 Atlantic 10 Conference
5 Big East Conference
6 Big Sky Conference & Western Athletic Conference
7 Big Ten Conference
8 Big 12 Conference
9 Big West Conference & West Coast Conference
10 Colonial Athletic Association
11 Conference USA
12 Horizon League & The Summit League
13 Ivy League & Patriot League & Independent(s)
14 Mid-American Conference
15 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
16 Missouri Valley Conference
17 Mountain West Conference
18 Northeast Conference
19 Ohio Valley Conference
20 Pacific-12 Conference
21 Southeastern Conference
22 Southern Conference
23 Southland Conference & Southwestern Athletic Conference
24 Sun Belt Conference
25 - Not on the NABC Wikipedia page... guess it's the American Athletic Conference...:)
No one in District 21-SEC worthy of selection, or are we just supposed to expect it was Calipari?
District 21 just read: See University of Kentucky's Media Guide
I expect Grizz here to whine about Petros not being 1st team any minute
Petros sucks
Vashil and Alec named to Horizon League Winter Academic All-League Team: Congrats!
Academic All-League Men's Basketball Team: Vashil Fernandez (Valparaiso), Alec Peters (Valparaiso), Kendall Griffin, (Wright State), Corey Petros (Oakland), and Cody Wichmann (Milwaukee).
http://www.horizonleague.org/blog/horizon-league-announces-2014-15-winter-academic-all-league-teams (http://www.horizonleague.org/blog/horizon-league-announces-2014-15-winter-academic-all-league-teams)